The role of the Coroner is to investigate and record the causes and circumstances of all sudden deaths where the cause is not known, violent or unnatural deaths and any death which occurred whilst the deceased was in lawful custody.

The Powys, Bridgend and Glamorgan Valleys Coroner's Service endeavours to provide a caring, efficient service making the processes involved as easily comprehensible and accessible as possible.

Coroner's Officers

In the event of a sudden death, whatever the time of day, the Police will attend on behalf of the Coroner. The police officer who attends the scene will usually act as the "coroner's officer" in the first instance. This officer will deal with contacting the Coroner, the removal of the deceased to a chapel of rest or mortuary and recording all the necessary information.

Once the immediate requirements have been met the officer will pass on the details of the deceased and the circumstances to the full time Coroner's Officer.

The Coroner's Officer will be the first point of contact for all interested persons.

Feedback and complaints

The Coroner will not normally enter into correspondence about the cases with which he is or has been involved, but comments and suggestions on improving the Coroner Service are always welcome.

Complaints about a Coroner's decision or the outcome of an Inquest can only be dealt with through the High Court. The Coroner's Office will be able to explain the procedure on request, but cannot give legal advice.

All complaints about the administration of the Powys Coroner Service, or the conduct of individual Coroners or their Officers should be raised in the first instance with the Coroner by writing to him. Click here for full contact details